6-7mm Cardamom for Tea Masala: Why It's the Best Grade for Chai Blends

Tea masala doesn't need the biggest, boldest cardamom pods on the market. It needs fresh, aromatic ones at a sensible price. That's why smaller grades such as 6–7 mm are often the practical choice for tea and masala makers.

Cardamom's job in chai masala

In a blend with ginger, cloves, cinnamon and pepper, cardamom provides the floral, sweet top note. It doesn't need to look impressive, because it's ground. What matters is aroma and freshness.

Why smaller grades make sense

• Cost: bold grades carry a premium mostly for their size and looks. Once ground, that visual advantage disappears.
• Aroma: a fresh, well-dried smaller pod can still be very aromatic. Check by cracking a sample.
• Consistency: a steady supply of one grade makes your blend taste the same batch after batch.

What to check in a sample

1. Crack a few pods: seeds should be dark and sticky, with few empty pods.
2. Smell immediately: strong and floral, not musty.
3. Look for even green colour, no mould, no excessive dust or stalks.

A simple chai masala base

A common starting ratio: 4 parts cardamom, 2 parts cinnamon, 2 parts cloves, 1 part black pepper, 1 part dry ginger, ground fine. Adjust to your brand's taste.

Ordering

Bulk prices are quoted per order based on grade, quantity and the current market. Ask us on WhatsApp for a sample and quote, or see our cardamom wholesale page.